Do you need to get a home inspection done but need clarification about the logistics of the process? Whether you are planning on buying a home or selling one in Bellevue real estate, one thing is clear: you need to hire a home inspector to thoroughly assess the home.
A home inspection can give you the much-needed peace of mind that the property is in the best possible condition. After reviewing the inspection results, you can determine how to proceed with the real estate transaction. Read on to find out what a home inspection is and what you can expect in the process.
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is performed by a licensed and qualified home inspector, who will thoroughly examine the property from top to bottom to ensure it is suitable to live in. This way, you can ensure that there are no unforeseen problems or damages that may lead to further costs down the line.
What is assessed during the home inspection?
A home inspector will take a detailed look at all areas of the home, such as the HVAC system, electrical system, plumbing, foundation, and roof. In addition, an experienced home inspector will evaluate the amenities on the property, such as swimming pools, spas, fire pits, home gyms, and entertainment rooms, to ensure that they are all functioning properly. You can also order specialized inspections to address these areas. It is important to note that a home inspector will never diagnose anything on the property. Instead, they will simply note down any potential issues for later assessment.
It is often encouraged for buyers to attend home inspections to gain valuable information and insight. This way, buyers will be able to see the exact condition of the property and ask any pertinent questions about the inspection results. As for sellers, it is typically requested that they refrain from attending the home inspection, as they might inadvertently interfere with the process or somehow influence the results.
When to have a home inspection done
As a buyer, it is recommended that you get a home inspection done as part of the closing process during the contingency period. You can still negotiate with the seller during this timeframe if the inspection report reveals any significant problems. As you can see, getting a home inspection is akin to crossing your t’s and dotting your i’s before moving forward. Buying a home is a significant life decision, and a home inspection will ensure it is the right one.
As for sellers, conducting a pre-listing home inspection will reveal any areas of concern that should be addressed before opening the doors to prospective buyers. After living in a home for many years, there are certain issues that even the most observant homeowners will likely not notice, such as cracks in the foundation or a possible mold infestation. A home inspector has the tools to find these potentially problematic issues. With a detailed inspection report in hand, homeowners can decide which repairs are most important to tackle before listing on the Bellevue real estate market. It is essential to remember that sellers must disclose the findings of a pre-listing inspection report to any prospective buyers.
After the home inspection
After the inspection is completed, buyers and sellers will receive a detailed inspection report with images and notes showing any areas of concern. You should review the inspection report with an experienced real estate agent to ensure you understand it.
If the damages or necessary repairs are too extensive, a buyer can decide not to proceed with the purchase of the home. Buyers can also use the results of the inspection report to negotiate with the other party. They may be able to request that the seller complete certain repairs before the move-in date, or the buyer might receive a credit to address the repairs on their own in the future.
As for sellers, they should also review the inspection report with their real estate agent. Sellers can then decide what should be repaired or updated. If the inspection was completed before listing, this is an excellent opportunity for sellers to get a head start on any repair concerns before buyers begin touring the property. Typically, sellers should fix any roofing damages, problems with the HVAC system, issues with the plumbing, structural concerns, and anything else that could affect the home's livability. Sellers might not be willing to repair minor issues, such as chipped paint, loose doorknobs, or small cracks in the driveway. Review the home inspection report with your real estate agent, and prioritize the critical issues first.
Finding a qualified home inspector
Perhaps the best source that you have in searching for a qualified home inspector lies in your real estate agent’s professional network. Ask your real estate agent for a recommendation for a few reputable home inspectors in the Bellevue area. When searching for a home inspector, you need someone who has experience working with luxury Bellevue homes. A highly skilled professional who has conducted numerous home inspections in the Bellevue area knows which areas to look out for.
Potential costs
Home inspections can vary in cost, mainly depending on the size of the property and its location. Because getting a home inspection is essential to ensuring you are making a wise decision in your property purchase, it is generally considered an excellent investment and an integral step in the process.
Ready to get started?
If you are interested in buying or selling a Bellevue home, it’s time to schedule a consultation with a top-tier agent. As a trusted real estate broker, Jeff Reynolds has the dedication and drive that get results. Jeff can provide expert guidance on the entire buying and selling process, from implementing innovative marketing strategies to analyzing the local Bellevue real estate market.
Whether you are in the market to purchase a new home or sell your beloved property, Jeff can help you achieve your real estate dreams with the utmost satisfaction. Reach out today.